Eleven waste to energy (WTE) plants worldwide emit more than 5 million tonnes of carbon dioxide annually while the 20 facilities examined in a new report represent investments worth $7 billion.
The report published on October 13 by the Global Alliance for Incinerator Alternatives, assessed 20 incinerators across 16 countries, including the Timarpur Okhla waste to energy plant in Delhi. It examined their climate impact public health risks and financial costs.
Available data showed that the 20 facilities generated around 1.7 million tonnes of toxic ash annually. Researchers also highlighted emissions of pollutants including dioxins, furans, carbon monoxide and particulate matter. The report noted that several facilities did not publicly disclose complete or updated emissions and ash generation data.
At Delhi’s Timarpur Okhla plant, government findings in 2021 reportedly recorded dioxins, furans and particulate matter at levels ten times above permissible limits.
Despite these concerns, governments continue investing in incineration facilities, with new plants planned or under construction in countries including Italy, Zimbabwe, Thailand and Brazil.
The report also raised concerns about “put or pay” contracts which can require municipalities to supply minimum quantities of waste or pay financial penalties. Such arrangements may discourage recycling and waste reduction because plants need a steady supply of material to operate.
Researchers called for safer waste management approaches that prioritise waste prevention reuse and recycling while reducing pollution, public health risks and financial burdens.